Tim Kaiser – Muhlenberg
Journey:
-Graduated Waynesburg University: 2017
-Heidelberg Graduate Assistant: 2017-2019
-Muhlenberg Assistant: Present
Tim, or “Timmy” Kaiser is in his first season at Muhlenberg College under third year Head Coach Kevin Hopkins. Kaiser started his career in Division III as a player at Waynesburg University (PAC) where he started in every game as a senior. After graduation Kaiser made his way to Tiffin Ohio as a Graduate Assistant at Heidelberg University (OAC).
Hopkins has given him a lot of responsibility in Kaiser’s first year as a member of the staff, “Tim has a hand in almost every aspect of our program” says Hopkins. “He is in charge of organizing and handling our initial recruiting, coordinating individual skill development plans for our guys, creating and presenting opponent scouting reports, and helping plan and run practice.”
Kaiser has immersed himself in everything Muhlenberg since being hired, “What I love about Muhlenberg is our facilities, our gym, fitness center, and field house are things that not every program has and really helps us in the development of our players. Also, being able to work for Coach Hopkins has been a great experience. I've learned so much from him, and the time and non-stop energy he spends trying to find ways for every aspect of the program to improve is incredible. Also, our players, our guys welcomed me in this year, and it has been so enjoyable being around a group who works as hard as they do and enjoys playing for each other as much as they do.”
Having a great relationship between the head coach and the assistant coach is crucial for every program to be successful. I asked Coach Hopkins what some of his favorite things about Kaiser are. “His positive attitude that he brings every day, and his ability to connect with people and form positive relationships,” says Hopkins. “A story that spoke volumes to me about the type of person Tim is, came a couple weeks into the season. We had a late practice and I was doing some stuff in my office before heading home (I live about 45 minutes from campus). Unprompted, Tim came into my office said, “Coach, I just want you to know that if there is ever anything that you need me to do or even anything you just don’t want to do after practice, then I would be happy to help. I know that you live 45 minutes away and still have to drive home, so if there is anything I can do then just ask.” Tim is always looking for ways that he can add value and help and has already had a significant impact on our program.”
It is that type of work ethic and willingness to give back that made Kaiser get into coaching, “I got into coaching because I've loved the game since I was young and always wanted to be around the game so coaching seemed like the best way to do that. Also, I was lucky enough to play for great coaches who had a big impact on who I am as a person and that made me want to get into coaching as well. Being in a position to help student athletes in any way they need is a very rewarding experience and watching them succeed on and off the court makes every long night or early morning well worth it.”
“I love Division III because of the self-accountability it fosters in its athletes,” says Kaiser. “For about 70% of the calendar year, us coaches are not allowed to be in the gym, weight room, or on the field with the players. So, to be really good, a lot of that comes down to whether or not you want to put in the time and effort when no one is forcing you to do so. I think that type of self-accountability and self-sufficiency is really important once you enter the real world and Division III athletes know that better than anyone.”
Most importantly, Kaiser has explored the Allentown community, and already has a favorite pre-game meal, “grilled chicken sandwich from Wally's Deli.” In addition to his pre-game meal, another game day tradition is apparel related, “I just like to make sure my shirt and tie combo matches.”
Keep an eye out for Tim Kaiser in the future, because Coach Hopkins says he is already starting to think about things from a head coach’s perspective, “One of the other important things to know about Tim is that he is always looking for feedback and ways to improve as a coach, both on and off the court. He asks thought-provoking questions and is eager to learn and develop. You can tell that he thinks about the game like a head coach. For example, often when I ask him a question, I can tell by his response that he had already asked the question to himself and had been thinking of answers.”
The Muhlenberg Mules are off to an 11-4 start and are 4-4 in the tough Centennial Conference.
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